If you want to add a gorgeous, flowering tree to your yard but don’t want to wait years for a small sapling to grow propagating a catalpa tree from cuttings is the perfect solution. In just one growing season you can create a clone of your favorite catalpa variety from a simple stem cutting.
Catalpa trees are prized for their large heart-shaped leaves, fragrant spring blooms and whimsical beanpod seed pods. These features make catalpas excellent shade trees, ornamentals, and wildlife gardens. Lucky for us, their fast-rooting stems create an easy shortcut to growing mature catalpa trees quickly.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the best practices for successfully rooting catalpa cuttings and nurturing the young trees to maturity. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying your own catalpa stand or mini-orchard before you know it!
When to Take Catalpa Cuttings
Timing is everything when it comes to propagating plants. The best time to take cuttings of catalpas is from late spring to midsummer.
Aim to cut catalpa branches in:
- Late May or early June
- July
- Early August at the latest
This allows enough warm weather for the cuttings to form roots before winter arrives. The earlier you can take your cuttings, the better. Catalpa’s rooting ability decreases later in summer.
Selecting the Best Growth for Cuttings
Check over your catalpa tree and look for:
- Soft, green shoot tips on new growth from this year
- Stems growing from the lower trunk or basal suckers
- Non-flowering branches
Avoid using older, woody branches from the lower tree. The younger, softer stems root quickest.
How to Take and Root Catalpa Cuttings
When you’ve identified some ideal catalpa growth for cuttings, follow these simple steps:
Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need:
- Clean, sharp pruners or scissors
- Rooting hormone powder (optional but highly recommended)
- Small pots and potting mix
- Clear plastic bags or cloche for humidity dome
- Spray bottle for misting
Cut Each Stem
- Use pruners to cut stems to 4-6 inches long
- Make a straight cut just below a leaf node
- Strip off the bottom leaves, leaving just the top two
Dip in Rooting Hormone
- Dip the bare end of the cutting in rooting powder to encourage quick root growth
Stick in Soilless Mix
- Stick cuttings 2-3 inches deep in small pots filled with light potting mix
- Gently firm the mix around each cutting
Provide Warmth and High Humidity
- Place pots inside a plastic bag or under a cloche to create a greenhouse environment
- Keep them in a warm place (70-80°F is optimal) but avoid direct hot sun
This protects the tender cuttings while they form roots in 4-6 weeks.
Caring for Catalpa Cuttings
With proper care, your cuttings will root quickly. Here’s how to help them along:
- Keep the potting mix moist but not soggy wet
- Maintain warm temperatures around 70-80°F
- Provide bright, indirect light
- Monitor cuttings for new top growth, replacing any dropped leaves
Once roots establish, gently tug on cuttings to test for resistance before transplanting into larger pots.
Transplanting Rooted Catalpa Cuttings
In late summer, thoroughly water and “harden off” any well-rooted cuttings by slowly exposing them to sun and outdoor conditions.
- Repot the young catalpa trees into 1-2 gallon pots using regular potting soil.
- Grow them in a protected spot like an unheated greenhouse or cold frame over winter.
The following spring, they’ll be ready for transplanting to their permanent home in your landscape!
Tips for Growing Healthy Catalpa Trees
Follow these additional tips to get the best results from your propagated catalpa trees:
- Take lots of cuttings to account for variability in rooting success rates.
- Use sterile potting mix and clean tools to prevent fungal issues.
- Pinch off any flowers the first year to promote strong vegetative growth.
- Protect young trees from winter damage for the first few years.
- Space transplanted trees appropriately as catalpas can grow quite large.
Frequently Asked Questions About Catalpa Cuttings
If you’ve never grown plants from cuttings before, you probably have some questions. Here are answers to some common catalpa queries:
What is the best rooting hormone for catalpa cuttings?
Most rooting powders containing auxin hormones like IBA or NAA work well. Or try a natural willow water rooting solution.
Should I use bottom heat for rooting?
To keep the temperature between 70°F and 80°F, use a heat mat or some other source of heat. This will speed up root growth. Just avoid direct contact between cuttings and heat sources.
How do I overwinter my rooted cuttings?
Late in the summer, slowly get young catalpas used to being outside to “harden them off.” Before winter, move them to bigger pots and let them grow in a greenhouse or cold frame that isn’t heated.
Can I root catalpa cuttings in water instead of soil?
It’s best to root them in a sterile, well-draining potting mix instead of just water. Soilless mixes provide stability and help prevent stem rot issues.
Should I mist my cuttings?
Yes, frequent misting provides helpful humidity while the tender cuttings are forming roots. Just avoid wetting the leaves.
Enjoy Your Own Catalpa Stand in No Time
By taking cuttings from an established catalpa tree, you can quickly propagate new trees that are genetically identical clones. With proper timing and care, these fast-rooting cuttings will be ready for your yard in just one season!
The beautiful blooms, expansive shade, and graceful form of catalpa trees make them a prized addition to any landscape. By propagating from cuttings, you can create a small catalpa orchard or stand of these gorgeous, flowering shade trees with ease.
Step 5: Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Catalpa trees are relatively low-maintenance once established, but a little care goes a long way in ensuring their long-term health. Regularly check for pests, diseases, and any signs of stress, especially in the first few years.
Prune the tree as needed to remove dead or damaged branches, and maintain its shape. As the tree grows, its needs for water and nutrients may increase, so be prepared to adjust your care routine accordingly.
If you do these things, your Catalpa tree will be ready to grow strong and healthy, giving your landscape shade, beauty, and environmental benefits for years to come.
Step 2: Preparing the Planting Hole
Once you’ve selected the ideal site, it’s time to prepare the planting hole. For a container-grown or rooted cutting, dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball. This allows the roots to spread out easily and establishes a strong foundation for the tree. If you’re planting from seed, the process will start differently, which we’ll cover in the next step.
Loosen the soil around the edges and bottom of the hole to make it easier for roots to penetrate the ground. If the soil is particularly heavy or clay-like, consider mixing in some organic compost to improve drainage and nutrient availability.